As a cornerstone of Colby’s liberal arts experience, we foster a vibrant residential culture where exploration and collaboration thrive. We empower students to realize their potential through inclusive, student-centered environments that bridge academic success with personal growth. By offering diverse housing options and meaningful engagement, we cultivate a deep sense of belonging, ensuring every student is valued and supported.
The Office of the Residential Experience envisions a dynamic living environment that embodies the spirit of a liberal arts education. We seek to cultivate an inclusive, vibrant community where every resident is empowered and supported to navigate their unique path—fostering connections, resilience, and discovery within their four-year journey.
Commitment to fostering an environment where all students feel valued and respected.
Developing safe, student-centered living spaces to support both academic and personal growth.
Encouraging meaningful connections and shared experiences that promote learning and exploration.
Programs and services that balance academic success with personal well-being and development.
Providing a variety of living environments and ensuring that students choose a home that fits their journey.
As the Dean of Housing & Residential Education, Dan Cline (he/him), oversees all aspects of the residential experience on campus. He joined the Colby community in July 2020 with over ten years of progressive experience in college and university student housing programs at small liberal arts institutions. Prior to joining Colby, Dan supported student growth and development as the Assistant Director of Residence Life at Curry College (Milton, MA), and in Area Coordinator positions (Residence Life) at Baldwin Wallace University (Berea, OH) and Elizabethtown College (Elizabethtown, PA). Dan attended The University of Rhode Island for both his undergraduate (BA, History) and graduate (MS, Human Development & Family Studies; College Student Personnel) degrees.
Originally from Rhode Island, Dan and his family call Sidney, Maine their home. He enjoys going to concerts, cheering on the Red Sox and the Patriots, traveling (especially to Disney World), and exploring the local area with his spouse (Andrea) and two young children (Austin and Caleb).
Sheila Copperthite (she/her) serves as the Assistant Dean and Director of Housing Administration, where she leads the College’s housing operations. She joined Colby in October 2024 and is excited to partner with students and help make their residential experience feel like home. Before coming to Colby, Sheila worked in several roles within the Bantam Network and Housing at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biochemistry and Neuroscience and later completed her Master’s in Public Policy at Trinity.
At home, Sheila loves spending time with her husband, Joel, their kids, Calliope and Philip, and their wonderful (and very entertaining) collection of cats.
Kyle Arthenayake (he/him) is the Associate Director of Residential Education, where he leads the Hall Staff program and helps shape the residential experience at Colby. He joined the Colby community in October 2021, initially working in the Pugh Center for Multicultural Programs. By December 2022, Kyle transitioned to the Office of Residential Experience, bringing his passion for building a collaborative and inclusive community. He uses student development theories to foster holistic student growth.
Kyle earned his undergraduate degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Western Oregon University and a Master’s in Higher Education Development from the University of Maine-Orono. When he’s not working, Kyle enjoys spending time with his partner, Katie ’20, their two dogs, Piper and Stevie, and three chickens, Margaret, Karen, and Peep. Depending on the season, you might find Kyle in his organic garden, skiing the trails at Quarry Road, or brewing beer.
Shikha Shrestha (she/hers) is the Assistant Director of Residential Education, where she oversees the Hall Staff program and the day to day operations and processes of the program. She joined the Colby community in July of 2023, bringing her undergraduate and graduate experience of working in residential education to enhance the residential experience at Colby.
Shikha earned her undergraduate degree in Sociology and Criminology with a minor in Economics from Ramapo College of New Jersey (Mahwah, NJ) and a Masters in Higher Education Degree from Rowan University (Glassboro, NJ). She enjoys going on hikes, concerts or learning new crafts in her time outside work.
Angelica Loredo is the Administrative Assistant for the Office of Residential Experience, where she supports the team with a focus on community and organization. She holds a Bachelor of University Studies from the University of Maine, with a concentration in Peace and Reconciliation and a minor in Anthropology.
Currently, Angelica is expanding her expertise as a student of Sustainable Horticulture at Unity Environmental University. Her passion for the natural world is reflected in her active memberships with the American Public Gardens Association and the International Carnivorous Plant Society. On campus, she balances her administrative work by tending to her collection of rare plants housed in the Colby College greenhouse.
Office of Residential Experience
4000 Mayflower Hill
Waterville, ME 04901
